URI Fights Bar Shuttle

A student home marked by an orange sticker.

The University of Rhode Island will be going to court to fight Rogue Island Jitney's plan to shuttle students from campus to Narragansett bars. The jitney was approved by the Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers. The University is concerned about underage drinking and other criminal issues that could arise if students are being transported.

U.R.I. is notorious for its dry campus after being known for decades as one of the country's top party schools. Recently, the school has been battling negative press surrounding the Eastward Look and Bonnet Shores residences occupied by students. Year-round residents have been very vocal about their disdain for the partying happening in their neighborhoods. Students, however, have been voicing their hatred of the orange sticker, a creation of the Narragansett police force and the University. The sticker, often likened to the "scarlet letter", marks houses that have loud parties.

With this issue always causing issues in the community, the University is very concerned about the repercussions of the jitney that will transport students around campus. Political figures are also concerned (http://www.rilin.state.ri.us/news/pr1.asp?prid=6918). Rogue Island Jitney promises to check the identification of all students who use their transportation. The University says the company cut corners when securing its agreement with the Department of Utilities and Carriers. The case is ongoing.